Freshman Maya Michalski helps lead Cheyenne Mountain girls tennis to state runner-up finish
COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — Cheyenne Mountain High School freshman Maya Michalski’s go to sport is tennis, which she has been playing since she was five years old. This is not surprising as the game is considered a family sport.
“My father made it to the final round of states, and my grandfather taught him,” Michalski told KOAA.
Well, this family lineage has certainly paid off, because as a freshman Michalski was competing in the state tournament this past June. Not only was she competing as an individual, but her team was in hopes of their 24th team state title, no small feat by any means. With a history like this it is no wonder why athletes like her are great at tennis at a young age.
While the Indians ultimately fell short of their goal, Michalski was able to help the team secure a Class 4A runner-up finish with 27 team points. When Michalski and her teammates played in the state tournament this past season, they were playing for much more than just themselves and their school. Of course, they were playing for the state championship, but all the girls were also certainly playing for their coach this year.
Before the start of the season, Cheyenne Mountain girls’ tennis head coach Dave Adams was unfortunately diagnosed with throat cancer. Not knowing the entire weight of his situation at first, he did not let that stop him from coaching the girls this season. Thankfully he is now in remission, but when someone like that is still willing to coach it shows you truly how much he or she cares about the team.
It is safe to say that this served as some extra motivation for the team during their state playoff run. When asked about her coach Michalski told KOAA, “It is just good that he did get better and he still stays our coach.”
That is certainly a hard feeling to put into words, but the girls and parents alike were appreciative of Adams this season.
For Michalski, although her game does most of the talking, her coach also greatly appreciates her game as well. When discussing her skills with KOAA Adams said, “Her strokes are beautiful to watch. Long, graceful, in-balance, athletic. I just said I am going to just spoil myself and enjoy watching this kid hit the ball.”
Tennis takes a lot of skill, and every minute detail matters. From the grip to the tightness of the wrist, any singular fault could result in a large difference on the tennis court. Michalski certainly has her grip on the game, and her years of training are beginning to pay off.
Unfortunately, the girls did not win the state championship, but they came close. Michalski still has a lot of time left ahead of her, so expect her to only improve and the rest of Cheyenne Mountain team to return to the state playoffs next year.
This is an unedited user writing submission. The views, information, or opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of Best Version Media or its employees.
